For anyone struggling with addiction, the idea of getting and staying sober can feel daunting. But there is hope!
Part of an effective recovery plan is incorporating healthy lifestyle habits, including regular physical activity. Exercise has been shown to improve mental wellness in several ways, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving sleep and mood.
If you’re ready to get started on your own journey to sobriety, read on for more information about how working out can help support your addiction recovery.
The link between physical activity and mental wellness
Exercise is an incredibly valuable tool for people going through addiction recovery. Evidence from recent studies has linked physical activity to both short-term and long-term improvements in mental wellness.
A powerful mood booster and stress reliever, regular exercise encourages people to build confidence as they regain control over their lives and make positive changes. As an added bonus, it can help build social connections too!
Exercise can be anything from a leisurely stroll around the block to a yoga session with friends. Its unique ability to provide empowerment should not be overlooked in anyone’s addiction recovery journey.
Benefits of exercise
Exercising regularly can have a positive effect on your mood, helping to reduce stress and even combat depression. It releases endorphins which generate feelings of happiness, relaxation, and satisfaction.
Regular exercise also improves sleep quality by providing the body with more energy during the day; this helps to regulate our circadian rhythm for a better night’s rest. Also, physical activity can improve self-confidence and self-esteem, as well as reduce feelings of anxiety and symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Through regular physical activity, we can gain control over our bodies, proving to ourselves that we are capable of achieving goals and making positive changes in our lives. Physical activity helps to break down barriers, allowing us to build confidence in our ability to succeed.
Different types of exercises
When it comes to incorporating physical activity into a recovery plan, there are many types of exercise that can be beneficial. Aerobic exercises, such as running, swimming, or biking, help increase heart rate and breathing for better cardiovascular health.
Strength-training activities like weight lifting or bodyweight exercises help improve muscle tone and strength while also promoting mental wellness. Low-impact activities, such as yoga and tai chi, are also excellent options for those in recovery.
Tips on getting started with a workout routine
When starting a workout routine, it’s important to choose activities that you enjoy. Regular exercise should not be seen as a chore; instead, it should be something that you look forward to doing and find rewarding.
It’s also important to start off slow and ease into your routine. It’s best to begin with low-impact exercises and gradually increase intensity over time. Additionally, it’s advisable to find a support system or mentor who can help you stay motivated and accountable on your journey.
You could also scope out a gym that makes you feel comfortable and open, where the staff encourages you to achieve your goals.
Never forget how far you’ve come in your journey, and look forward to even more development towards completing your goals as you incorporate physical activity into your recovery plan.
Conclusion
Physical activity is a key component of an effective addiction recovery plan. Not only does it promote physical health, but also mental well-being. Exercise helps to improve self-confidence and self-esteem, reduces stress and depression, and encourages positive lifestyle changes.
Additionally, multivitamin supplements can help bridge any nutritional gaps so that you can focus on strengthening both your body and mind through regular physical activity.
With the right plan, supporting environment, and attitude, you can use exercise to benefit your full recovery. So why not get moving today?
